Epiphany Festival (Befana) in Mascali

The Befana arrives in Mascali

On January 6th, the day of the Epiphany, the historic center of Mascali comes alive for the grand finale of the long calendar of Christmas events organized by the municipal administration. The Befana Festival turns Piazza Duomo into an authentic open-air playground, where the morning is filled with laughter, entertainment, and the magic of tradition. It is the event that, as the popular saying goes, brings all the festivities to a beautiful close: "Epiphany takes all the holidays away."

A morning dedicated to children

The festival kicks off in the heart of the Ionian town and offers various themed areas designed to engage children of all ages. Highlights in the square include:

• Inflatables where little ones can jump and play in total safety;
• a team of entertainers who keep the audience engaged with gags, group games, and magic performances;
• a dedicated space to take a souvenir photo with the Befana, Italy's most beloved old lady;
• sweets, candies, and the festive atmosphere that has always accompanied the arrival of the Befana, the undisputed star with her sack full of gifts.

Over the years, the Befana has made her entrance into the square to the delight of the children, in a climate of joy shared with Mayor Luigi Messina and councilors Veronica Musumeci and Valentina Gullotta, the promoters of the initiative.

The Living Nativity of Santa Venera

The Epiphany day in Mascali does not end in Piazza Duomo. In the charming village of Santa Venera, a living nativity scene comes to life in the late afternoon, recreating the nativity with actors and traditional settings, providing an intense and fascinating finale to the Mascali Christmas festivities.

Mascali, between Etna and the sea

Located in the province of Catania, in Sicily, at the foot of Mount Etna and just a short distance from the Ionian Sea, Mascali preserves a strong community identity reflected in its popular festivals. The Befana Festival is one of the occasions when the town gathers in the square, promoting social connection and tradition while offering children an unforgettable morning.